Healthcare Sciences researcher awarded prestigious GNC Trust research grant

Dr Ray Samuriwo from the School of Healthcare Sciences has been awarded a grant by the General Nursing Council Trust of England and Wales to undertake research focused on improving the quality of skin care that patients with advanced cancer receive at the very end of life.

The project will be undertaken collaboratively with Dr Sally Anstey, Claire Job and Professor Jane Hopkinson from Healthcare Sciences as well as Bernadette Coles from the Cardiff University Information Services at the Velindre Cancer Centre.

Dr Ray Samuriwo says “I am delighted and honoured to be awarded the GNC Trust grant to undertake this research project. As well as seeking to identify the skin care needs of people with advanced cancer and their families at the end of life, the project will address the ways in which nurses make decisions about how to prioritise and deliver care to maintain skin integrity at the very end of life.

I would like to acknowledge the unwavering support and encouragement that I have received from colleagues across the school, and look forward to working with them to undertake this research project in conjunction with clinicians and people who have been diagnosed with advanced cancer. Ultimately, our aim is to improve the quality of skin care that such cancer sufferers receive from nurses."

Professor Danny Kelly, Deputy Head of School for Research, said "Dr Samuriwo's project will be important in helping to promote effective and evidence-based end of life care. Skin problems can have a significant impact on patient's quality of life and comfort, as well as placing considerable time demands on nurses. Ray's research in this area is to be welcomed.” 

This study builds on the work a number of research projects related that are being undertaken in the school that are exploring ways to enhance the palliative, emotional and supportive care  that is provided to patients, service users and their families by healthcare professionals.